Released 16/03/2024 - Joint media release
The ACT Government is building the infrastructure our growing city needs with a contract signed for a new half-pipe at the Belconnen skatepark.
“This is part of our biggest ever program to improve suburban infrastructure across our city, with upgrades being carried out at local shops, playgrounds and other community facilities including dog parks and skateparks,” said Minister for City Services, Tara Cheyne.
“With the contract signed and off-site fabrication now underway we’re expecting major construction to kick off on the site very soon, including the pouring of a new concrete slab to support this huge addition to Canberra’s most famous skatepark.
“I’m excited to see how the new half-pipe will be used for competition events, and whether this would be incorporated into an expanded competition as part of the ‘Belco Bowl’.”
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said: “The new half-pipe is a 2020 Labor election commitment, so it’s great to see that we’re now so close to starting work on site, with prefabricated metal and wooden ramps now being pieced together."
“The Canberra Skateboarding Association and Canberra BMX Club having been calling for improvements to Canberra Skate parks and this is just one example of Labor listening and delivering, throughout the planning and design phase for the new half-pipe/vert ramp.
“Canberra’s skate culture is very strong and its popularity is growing. The Belco skatepark is considered world-class by many skate enthusiasts, with national and international visitors dropping in to be part of the action. The half-pipe will take it to another level and extend its appeal as a destination right here in Canberra”.
“I’m totally stoked the ramp is on its way and can’t wait to see all the air and gnarly moves”.
The new half-pipe is expected to open to the public early in the second half of 2024.
The competition standard half-pipe is funded by both the ACT Government and the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Quotes attributable to Woody Brennan Canberra Skateboarding Association:
"The 2011 redevelopment of Belco skatepark required the demolition of the original vert ramp. A replacement was included in the design of the new facility, but wasn’t built back then.
"We’re happy to see a new vert ramp come to fruition so the community has more variety of things to skate at Belco skate park."
Quotes attributable to Tyson Jones-Peni from Canberra BMX Club:
"I'm really excited to see the new vert ramp begin construction. Vert riding is a cherished part of freestyle BMX, some of the biggest names in our sport have come from vert riding and it has been integral in the history of BMX.
"It has been 13 years since the construction of Belconnen skatepark, so adding a quality vert ramp to visit and ride will be a huge benefit to the BMX community, both in Canberra and abroad."
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Tara Cheyne, MLA | Media Releases